In a world where first impressions matter more than ever, your CV serves as your ticket to the job application process.
What if I told you that in Nigeria, approximately 53.40% of young people are without employment, as reported by the National Bureau of Statistics in 2022. Do you think that these people do not have educational qualification or relevant working experiences?
Would it be a shocker if I told you that 7 out of every 10 unemployed Nigerian Youths do not have a professional CV that is optimised?
Moreover, not all elements of a CV are created equal. Some commonly included details might be working against you, hindering your chances of landing that dream job. In this article, we’ll delve into the top five taboos you should ditch to craft a truly standout resume that grabs attention for all the right reasons.
Additionally, a CV (Curriculum Vitae) is a detailed record summarising an individual’s educational history, employment background, skills, accomplishments, and credentials. It’s commonly utilised for academic, research, or professional applications, offering a comprehensive depiction of one’s career trajectory and qualifications.
Taboo 1: Personal Information Overload
Your CV is not your autobiography, and including excessive personal information can overwhelm recruiters and distract from your qualifications.
Additionally, while it’s essential to provide basic contact details and a professional summary, details like marital status, religious affiliations, or overly personal interests are best left off. Instead, focus on highlighting your skills, experiences, and achievements that directly relate to the job you’re applying for.
Taboo 2: Irrelevant Work Experience
Listing every job you’ve ever held might seem like a comprehensive approach, but it can dilute the impact of your relevant work experience. Recruiters are interested in how your past roles align with the position you’re seeking, so prioritise showcasing those experiences. If you have unrelated work experience, consider briefly mentioning it or leaving it out entirely to maintain focus on your most pertinent qualifications.
Taboo 3: Generic Objective Statements
Gone are the days of generic objective statements that offer little insight into your career aspirations. Instead, opt for a compelling career summary or professional profile that succinctly communicates your goals and what you bring to the table. Use this section to showcase your unique value proposition and set yourself apart from other candidates vying for the same position.
Taboo 4: Unprofessional Email Addresses
Your email address might seem like a minor detail, but it can have a significant impact on how you’re perceived by potential employers. Avoid using unprofessional or overly casual email addresses that could undermine your professionalism. Instead, opt for a simple, professional email address that incorporates your name or initials, making it easy for recruiters to reach out to you.
Taboo 5: References Available Upon Request
Ending your CV with the cliche phrase “References Available Upon Request” is unnecessary and takes up valuable space that could be used to showcase more relevant information. Most employers assume that you’ll provide references when asked, so there’s no need to explicitly state it. If you’re confident in your references, consider creating a separate document with their contact details to have on hand when needed.
Conclusion
By ditching these five taboos, you can elevate your CV from mediocre to exceptional and increase your chances of making a lasting impression on recruiters. Remember, your CV is your personal marketing tool, so make every word count. Take the time to tailor it to each job application, focusing on highlighting your most relevant experiences and skills. With a killer resume in hand, you’ll be well on your way to landing the job of your dreams.
We would be having a series on CV Do’s and Dont’s. Kindly read our next edition with this link.
First, have you implemented any of these tips in your CV? At Insight Success Nigeria, our focus is to crate employment, educate and train Nigerian Youths in improving their career. We would love to hear about your experiences and successes in the comments below!
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Thank you for reading, and best of luck on your journey to crafting the perfect CV and achieving your career goals, supported by both recruiters and ATS!
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